Cairns

Introducing Keynes

Cairns, located on the east coast of Cape York Peninsula in northern Queensland, Australia, is one of the gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns offers both the ocean views of the Great Barrier Reef and the inland rainforests. Its natural landscape is captivating, with plateaus, rainforests, waterfalls, and exotic plants. Its shopping malls rival those in Brisbane, and it boasts a wide variety of restaurants, especially seafood.

There are also several small islands nearby, accessible by boat. For those who enjoy the blue skies and clear seas, there are various coral reef day tours available. Those who enjoy a little gambling can try their luck at the Coral Reef Casino. Those who appreciate a touch of indigenous culture can enjoy an authentic Aboriginal performance at the Zaboja Dance Theatre. The "rainforest village" of Korunda, located 18 kilometers from Cairns, offers not only a glimpse into Australian Aboriginal culture but also canopies along the river, weaving through the forest and enjoying spectacular scenery. Stops along the way offer a chance to stroll along the trails and experience the essence of being in the rainforest.

Climate and best time to travel

Summers are hot and humid, while winters are warm and comfortable;

The best time to visit Cairns is from May to October. Although Cairns is in autumn and winter at this time, the water temperature is just right, it is not so hot during the day, and it happens to be the dry season so it will not rain, which is very suitable for outdoor sea activities or snorkeling.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef, stretching over 2,000 kilometers along the Queensland coastline and covering approximately 35 million hectares. It is home to a diverse array of marine wildlife, including more than 1,500 species of colorful tropical fish, 4,000 species of molluscs, 400 types of sponges, and 300 species of hard corals.

Green Island

Green Island, also known as Green Island, is located approximately 28 kilometers from Cairns. The "green" in "Green Island" refers to both the emerald-green waters and the island's lush rainforest. A full circumnavigation of the island takes 40 minutes.

Ancient tropical rainforest

The pristine rainforests within the World Heritage Site that Skyrail passes through are among the world's oldest surviving tropical rainforests, dating back at least 150 million years, tens of millions older than the Amazon. The 7.5-kilometer Skyrail Journey into the Ancient Rainforest not only allows visitors to witness the inspiration for Pandora, the rainforest planet in the film "Avatar," but also allows them to delve into unexplored natural areas and discover traces of the Jurassic descendants of this ancient rainforest.

Recommended 3-day tour

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Most Popular FAQs for Cairns

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Cairns, established in 1876, is a gateway to tropical North Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef, and ancient rainforests. It is a key tourism hub for ecological, cultural, and adventure experiences.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in northeastern Queensland, on the coast near the Coral Sea
• Accessible via Cairns Airport (domestic and limited international flights)
• Local transport: buses, taxis, rideshare; walking along the Esplanade is convenient
• Day trips often require guided tours or car rentals

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions: 9 AM–5 PM
• Great Barrier Reef tours often depart early morning
• Best time: Dry season (May–October) for comfortable weather and reef visibility

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Great Barrier Reef tours: AUD 150–250; book online or at tour operators
• Kuranda Scenic Railway: AUD 50–100; tickets online or at stations
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park: AUD 40–60; book online or onsite
• Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Free entry

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking recommended for reef tours, Kuranda Railway, and cultural experiences, typically 1–2 weeks ahead for peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days to cover the reef, rainforest, local attractions, and day trips to nearby Tablelands and beaches.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
• Cairns Esplanade and Lagoon
• Kuranda Village
• Tablelands waterfalls and wildlife
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available for the reef, rainforest, and cultural parks. Tours are primarily in English; some operators offer multilingual guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Scenic lookout on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Kuranda Scenic Railway viewpoints
• Reef platforms and snorkeling spots
• Cairns Esplanade for sunset and lagoon photography
• Waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Cairns Esplanade & Lagoon. Day 2: Great Barrier Reef tour. Day 3: Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation. Day 4: Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail. Day 5: Atherton Tablelands waterfalls and wildlife.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Evening reef cruises and sunset tours
• Night wildlife tours in rainforest and Tablelands
• Special cultural performances at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak season: June–August and school holidays; weekdays are less crowded, early morning tours avoid crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include public restrooms, cafes, restaurants, water fountains, picnic areas, and souvenir shops at major attractions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most attractions have wheelchair access and family-friendly facilities; reef tours and Skyrail cater to various mobility levels.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments widely accepted; small markets may accept cash only.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Waterfront dining along Cairns Esplanade
• Cafes in Kuranda Village and local markets
• Restaurants offering fresh seafood and tropical cuisine

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Cairns offers vegetarian, vegan, and halal options at many restaurants, cafes, and food markets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Shangri-La The Marina
• Palm Royale Cairns
• DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns
• Pullman Cairns International
• Kuranda lodges and rainforest retreats

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
• Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail
• Atherton Tablelands waterfalls and wildlife parks
• Fitzroy Island and Green Island for snorkeling and beaches

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Aboriginal art and crafts
• Coral and shell souvenirs
• Local tropical fruit jams and honey
• Reef-themed merchandise

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Car rental for exploring Tablelands, Daintree, and islands
• Public buses for local attractions
• Cairns Airport for domestic and international flights
• Ferry services to nearby islands like Green and Fitzroy Island